After much prayer and consideration, I have decided to run for the office of Probate Judge of Shelby County.

Two years ago, I made a difficult decision to leave the District Attorney’s Office where I had spent the better part of ten years doing a job I dearly loved. I made that decision because I saw an opportunity to make a difference in my community. That opportunity was filling the role of Mental Health Programs Coordinator and Legal Counsel to the Probate Judge. This position has been more fulfilling than I ever imagined, it has allowed me to pursue my passion of working with our community leaders, first responders, and advocates toward creating a better mental health system. It has also afforded me the opportunity to continue my legal career working in other areas of the probate court handling cases involving estates, guardianships and conservatorships, and condemnations. I have also had opportunities to plan and organize elections and preside over cases involving commitments and adoptions as a Specially Appointed Probate Judge.

From the moment Judge Fuhrmeister shared with me his intention not to seek reelection, I have thought carefully about the decision to run for office. I have considered not only my future and my family’s future, but also the future of the Shelby County community and programs that Judge Fuhrmeister initiated and I value. My decision to seek this office will have a huge impact on my family, not only in the normal sacrifices required in running for public office but also in that I will have to resign from my current position, one that helps support my family, as I cannot run for this position while I am employed by the county if I face opposition.

The other major consideration is my work family. The ladies in this office have worked together for many years and have been kind enough to take me in as one of their own. They work tirelessly to make sure everything in the Probate Office runs efficiently and that our citizens are treated with kindness in a manner that is fair and equitable. It is my hope that by running for this office, I can maintain continuity in the way the office has been run in the past, while also looking for new and innovative ways to improve the services we provide the public in the future.

Running for this office, isn’t just about a job, it isn’t something I am trying to check off a list or accomplish as a career goal. Serving as Probate Judge is a calling that I am passionate about. This venue will allow me to best use my talents and abilities to serve the citizens of Shelby County and make it a better place for my family and as well as yours. I am confident that I am the most qualified candidate to serve Shelby County as Probate Judge and am asking for your support and your vote in the primary election on June 5, 2018.